*SBU*SBU*SBU*SBU*SBU*SBU*SBU*SBU*SBU*SBU*SBU*
After driving Dixie and Zoë to the airport for their final three weeks in France, Antonio arranged a special picnic for her. Gaby had set everything up for him. They headed out to the lakefront and walked a short distance to the quiet spot he had picked. It may not have been what he had planned when he wanted to propose back then, but like they had come to the conclusion, they had changed. The one thing that hadn't changed was their feelings towards each other. Despite some people being against them getting married so soon, they were still going through with it because it was their life. Antonio felt his pocket to make sure the ring box was in it. He smiled, holding her hand as they drove to the park. He parked his truck and helped her from the cab. He then reached in the back seat and pulled out a picnic basket. He extended his arm. "I thought we could have a nice quiet picnic before heading back to the insanity of our wedding planning."
"I like that idea." Josie grinned, slipping her arm through his. "Lead the way."
Josie gasped when she saw the picnic site. There was a blanket set up with some twinkling LED candles. Josie suspected that Gaby had something to do with it. There was also a bottle of something chilling on ice. Knowing Gaby, it wasn't going to be champagne because of the baby. Antonio put the basket down and helped her get onto the blanket. "Antonio, this is beautiful." She grinned. "You remembered I loved picnics."
"I did… and I know you always wanted to have a picnic by the lake at sunset, so… here we are."
"Thank you." Josie took his hand. "It means a lot… to be able to finally do all the things we talked about… after all this time."
Antonio pulled her closer and kissed her deeply. "I can't make up for the years I've missed… but I can make things work now…" He reached into his pocket. He saw that the sun was beginning to sink under the horizon. Now was the time. He pulled out the ring box. "Josie, I've loved you since the moment I first laid eyes on you that day 16 years ago… I never wanted anything more in life than to spend my life with you. I've dreamt about this every day since I found out you were here, alive… with our children. I know you've already said yes, but… will you make me the happiest man alive and make it official? Will you marry me?" He popped open the ring box.
Josie gasped. The ring sparkled in the setting sun. The center diamond was a blush toned diamond in a tear-drop shape. On either side of it were two tiny tear-drop diamonds on their sides. The main diamond was surrounded by a thin halo of tiny diamonds and there were diamonds that went halfway around the band. "Yes, Antoino… I wouldn't have it any other way."
Antonio let out a quick breath and pulled the ring from its box. He took her left ring finger and slid it on. It was still a perfect fit. "Much better."
Josie kissed him deeply. "You have no idea… how amazing all of this has been, Antonio. Oh!" She grabbed his hand. "They're moving."
Antonio grinned. "Wow. Wow… that's… Oh, Jo… I missed this…"
"You're here now." Josie stroked his cheek. "We've got a chance to make this all work now."
"So, I asked Gaby to get something celebratory… and obviously, we can't do champagne… so she got us a sparkling peach thing… she said it's really good."
"I'm all for it." Josie took two glasses from the picnic basket. "Hey, what on Earth did you all pack?" She handed him the glasses.
Antonio popped the cork from the sparkling juice and poured them each some. "The kids insisted on packing it… and wouldn't tell me what's in there."
Josie laughed. "Well, a toast… to our family… our future."
They clinked their glasses and took a sip.
"Gaby's got good taste, huh, Antonio?" Josie took another sip. She loved the taste of peaches, having spent the majority of her life in the South.
"I'll admit I'm not missing the alcohol. Shall we see what our kids decided we should eat for our romantic picnic?"
"May as well."
Antonio opened the basket and laughed. "I think they assume we're never coming home."
"Why?" Josie leaned in and joined in the laughter. "Oh boy."
Antonio started pulling out individually wrapped sandwiches, of which there were over a dozen of various varieties. He then pulled out a couple small containers, each filled with a different salad. There were also some fresh fruit and some fresh veggies. "They take after you." Antonio closed the basket.
"Me? How so?" She asked.
"You always made so much food, even if it was just the two of us."
Josie blushed. "I guess I was practicing for having 6 kids."
Antonio offered her a sandwich. "I don't think either of us ever imagined having 6 kids."
"No, but in the short time that Zoë and Xavier have spent with Eva and Diego, they've really clicked. They're already planning who sleeps in which room when you decide to move in." Josie nibbled on her chicken salad sandwich.
"So, the kids have decided for me that we're moving into your place?" Antonio ate some of the carrot sticks.
"I guess so." Josie shrugged. "I think it's because mine is bigger."
"Well, I can't argue there. Maybe I could rent my place out, earn us a little more income."
"That will come in handy." Josie took some of the grapes from the basket. "So, Hank asked if we could go with him to get the Buick he's got lined up for me."
"When?"
"Monday, after he introduces me to the rest of the team."
"Well, for right now, it's Jules, me, him and Al Olinsky… Oh, and Jin… he's our Tech guy. I'm not sure how many people Voight actually wants in Intelligence."
"You really can't get over the fact that he's my dad, can you?" Josie finished her sandwich and took some of the pasta salad.
"No, honestly, I can't… He and I tend to butt heads… and I don't think he's forgiven me for tossing his ass in jail last year."
"You were doing your job." Josie squeezed his hand. "He's going to have to get over it eventually, just because I'm biologically his daughter… doesn't mean he's going to be able to pull the 'dad' card for a long time… I've loved you for a lot longer than I've known he's my dad."
"Have you told him that?"
"Not yet, but if I have to, I will. My love and loyalty are to you, and our family. No one else."
"I love you." Antonio kissed her. "You are the most rational and reasonable person I have ever met."
"I'm just being me." Josie shivered. "Oh, it's getting chilly…"
"Here." Antonio took his jacket and threw over her shoulders. "Better?"
Josie nodded. "Yeah."
Antonio repacked the basket and pulled her into his arms. They just sat there, watching the sun finish going down and the stars come up.
*SBU*SBU*SBU*SBU*SBU*SBU*SBU*SBU*SBU*SBU*SBU*
The next morning, Antonio and Josie were getting ready to head to their first shift together in Intelligence. Xavier had promised to take Diego to school and to go with him to baseball after. Diego was ecstatic. He couldn't wait to introduce his big brother to all his friends. Eva was a little less ecstatic than her little brother, but she was still happy to know she wasn't going to have to take the bus by herself. She was also happy to know that the next school year, Zoë would be home and she'd be in the same school as the twins. She was finishing packing her lunch when the doorbell rang.
"Dad! Someone's at the door!"
"Could one of you kids get it?" Antonio called back.
Xavier shouted. "I got it." Xavier ran to the door and opened it. "Jules… uh, hi."
"Hey, Xavier… how's everything?" Jules asked.
"Uh, fine… I guess… we're all just adjusting, slowly." Xavier stepped back. "Uh, come in. Don't need to be standing out there in the rain."
"Thanks, Xavier."
"Mom! Dad!" Xavier shouted up the stairs. "Jules is here!"
Jules shrugged. "Kids are the same no matter what age. Emmy and Liam do that all the time and they're way younger than you."
Xavier grinned. "They'll only get louder as they get older."
"Not something I'm looking forward to, but thanks Xavier." Jules patted his back. "You should, uh, probably finish getting ready." She pointed to her watch.
Xavier nodded and went to check if Diego and Eva were ready to head out for the bus. Antonio and Josie came down the stairs.
"Well, well, well…" Jules was tapping her foot. "Don't you guys look cute together."
"Take your shoes off, come grab some coffee." Antonio said as they headed to the kitchen.
"Sure." Jules kicked off her shoes, placed them and followed Antonio and Josie into the kitchen.
The kids hugged their parents, grabbed their umbrellas and headed out to catch the bus. The grown-ups had the house to themselves.
"So?" Jules took the cup of coffee Antonio offered her.
"So, what?" Josie asked as she made herself a cup of tea.
"Are the rumours true?" Jules added some cream and sugar to her coffee.
"What rumours?" Antonio arched an eyebrow.
"Uh, where do I start?" Jules sipped the coffee. "Damn, Antonio! What the hell did you put in this coffee!?"
"It's a Dominican thing… we like our coffee strong." Antonio laughed. He had barely added anything to his.
Josie snickered. "Thank God I don't drink coffee…"
"I think that's because of the baby." Jules said. "You drank coffee all the time before."
"My coffee, not tar." Josie pointed to her cup. "Want more sugar?"
"Yep." Jules took the sugar container and added more sugar to her cup.
Antonio almost snorted his coffee as he watched the amount of sugar she was adding to her coffee. "Would you like some coffee with your sugar?"
"Shut it, Dawson." Jules punched his arm. "So, dish."
"About what?" Josie asked, grabbing a bagel.
"The rumours!"
"What fucking rumours, Jules?" Antonio demanded. "I haven't really been in the office for a while."
"That you two are officially engaged, for starters." Jules sighed.
Josie held out her left hand. "Confirmation enough?"
Jules' jaw dropped. "Damn, Dawson! You held onto that ring all these years?"
Antonio snorted. "You sound surprised."
"Do you know how much you could've made on it?"
"The sentimental and emotional value are more than anything I could've gotten financially." Antonio took Josie's hand. "We're getting married, end of story."
"So, next rumour?" Josie asked.
"That you're getting married right away."
"That's also true." Josie blushed. "August 17."
"Wow… uh, how… how did you get all that planned?" Jules had assumed that Olinsky had been making this one all up.
"We're still working out a few kinks, but it's in the works." Antonio said, putting his coffee mug in the dishwasher.
"Okay… who's all invited?" Jules handed him her empty mug.
"That's part of the in progress aspect." Josie finished her tea. "There's a bigger question isn't there? I can see it eating at you."
"Uh, this one is a more complicated… um… is… is it true that… your…"
"That my biological father is Hank Voight?" Josie said casually.
Jules' eyes bulged. "Uh, yeah."
"It's true… and yeah, it's going to be weird. Trust me, we've been dealing with the weirdness here… Hank is over a lot, trying to catch up with me and the kids… and he's still kinda into my mom…" Josie sighed. "It also doesn't help that he's not overly thrilled about me and Antonio being together."
"Is this going to make a mess in Intelligence?" Jules looked between the two of them.
"Not if Voight doesn't play the 'Dad' card and he doesn't treat her like she's a porcelain doll." Antonio grabbed his jacket. "He's going to have to accept it, because neither of us are backing down on what we want in life."
"Well, let's head out then." Jules sighed. "I'm intrigued to see how this is going to go."
They arrived at the District in a short amount of time. Josie had a meeting with Platt to get her own entry information to get into Intelligence and to finalize the transfer from Vice to Intelligence. Antonio was waiting to meet with Jay Halstead about his latest update concerning the mobster trying to shake down Molly's.
"Hey, Antonio." Jay shook his hand.
"Jay." Antonio leaned against his desk. "So, what's the news?"
"He's a piece of work… he's got almost every business up and down that street paying him protection money."
"Fuck." Antonio groaned. "Okay, Gaby doesn't know you're a cop, right?"
Jay shook his head. "Nope. I plan on keeping it that way."
"Okay… Just know… something happens to her… or that bar… I'm gonna lay you out… got it?"
Jay nodded. "Yeah, man… I got it."
The two bumped fists and Jay made his way to go do his 'work' with Arthur. Antonio ran his hand through his hair. He didn't want Gaby or anyone from 51 involved with that asshole, but they also had to get this guy off the streets.
"Hey, Antonio… everything okay?" Josie tapped his shoulder.
"Yeah, babe." He smiled.
"What's that all about?"
"Uh, that's Jay… He's UC trying to take down that wannabe mobster that's been shaking down my sister and her friends that own Molly's."
"Ah… Gaby doesn't know he's a cop, does she?"
"Nope… and you're not going to tell her either."
"Okay, well, lead me up to Intelligence, Detective." Josie batted her eyes at him.
Antonio led her up the stairs into Intelligence. Everyone that was in the bullpen froze when Josie and Antonio got there. Hank had his back turned at the whiteboard. Erin tapped him on the shoulder.
Hank spun around. "Ah, well… I guess it's time to do some introductions."
Antonio nudged Josie to center of the room. "Everyone, this is Detective Josie Duplessis… our newest member of Intelligence."
There was a round of applause and congratulations. Hank got everyone to quiet down. "I know the rumour mill has been running at full speed in the last few weeks. So, let me clear a few of them up. First off, Detective Duplessis is here because of her work getting a major pimp and dealer off our streets. Secondly, some of you may remember that Antonio had gone through a lot of drama about 16 years back… that the girl he loved was supposedly killed… well, she's alive… her name is changed and they're now getting married… Congrats you two."
There was more applause and Olinsky patted Antonio on the back. "Couldn't be happier for you two."
Jin scratched his head. "Wait… she's Josie Fraser?"
Hank sighed. "Yeah, Jin… 'cept Billy Fraser isn't Josie's dad… That's the other rumour that needs to be addressed."
Erin arched an eyebrow. Hank was like a father to her and he hadn't said anything about it to her. "Hank?"
Josie wanted to hide behind Antonio for this part. She knew a lot of people were going to be questioning her appointment to Intelligence. This news wasn't going to help.
"Josie's mother and I… we go back… she actually introduced me to Camille… a little while after we had a one-night fling… and she got pregnant with Josie… so yes, I am her father… and no, she didn't get this position because I'm her biological father. She got it because she's that good. She was homicide in New Orleans before moving back and being a part of Vice. I think, maybe I should let Josie finish her introduction."
"Thanks, Hank." Josie blushed. "Uh, hi y'all. I'm Josephine Duplessis, but prefer if you call me Josie or Jo… I am engaged to Antonio… it was made official last night… the wedding is August 17… and we are expecting… the twins are due in October…"
"Twins?!" Erin exclaimed. "Jesus Christ! Wow! Congrats!"
"Thanks, Erin." Antonio smiled. "Um, we've officially merged our two families… Eva and Diego are getting used to having older siblings just fine…"
"Older… siblings?" Al asked this time.
"Hank? You couldn't tell them everything?" Josie crossed her arms.
"Nope… figured you two could shock them all." Hank laughed softly.
"Antonio and I were together back in my senior year of high school… we got pregnant… I was 17, he was 21… I got shipped off for my own protection and no one told Antonio… I was pregnant with twins… they were born in New Orleans, June 2, 1998… my 18th birthday… I raised them with my mama until now… Antonio just found out a couple weeks ago… Xavier and Zoë are thrilled to have our family back together… and Mama and Hank seem to be making things work for themselves too."
More jaws dropped with the news that Hank Voight was dating again. Al wasn't overly surprised, considering he'd been the one to drive Hank to the bar to meet with Dixie. Erin was just in shock. Hank had been keeping a lot of secrets and she was going to get answers.
"Well, now that that's been cleared up, Josie will be on desk duty here until she comes back from Mat Leave… then we'll figure out everything else." Hank dismissed them.
Erin followed him into his office and closed the door. "What the fuck, Hank?"
"I beg your pardon." Hank leaned back in his chair.
"You have a daughter? You're dating her mother? What the hell else have you been hiding?!"
"Erin, calm down… remember where you are."
"Hank… I've known you since I was about 14… you've never kept secrets from me… how could… did Camille know?"
Hank shook his head. "No, she didn't. I didn't find out until Josie was being released from the hospital that I was her father. Her mother didn't want to tell me sooner out of respect for Camille. They were close friends back in the day."
"Does Justin know he has an older sister and nieces and nephews?"
Hank sighed. "No and I don't know how to tell him. He's in Statesville and he's mad at the world… he blames me for not keeping him out."
"Hank, he had to hit rock bottom… you said it yourself."
"I know." Hank rubbed his jaw. "Look, right now, I'm dealing with a lot of new things. Yes, I'm seeing Josie's mother, Dixie… and I'm trying to get to know my daughter and my grandchildren… and I'm dealing with the fact that I've missed out on 33 years of her life and now she's marrying Antonio… it's… complicated."
"I'll say." She collapsed into a chair. "Are you okay with all this?"
"I can't say she can't marry him. They have 2 kids already together and another two on the way… she's accepting his kids into their life seamlessly… she's happy… Look Christmas Eve 1997, I forced Josie onto a plane… away from Antonio and the man who raised her as his daughter… she only found out that he wasn't her father back in 2003… they thought she'd be a match for a liver donation but she wasn't… and he died shortly after."
"I vaguely remember him… he was a close friend, right?"
Hank nodded. "Look, don't tell Justin… just… give me time to come up with how I can tell him."
"Whatever you want, Hank… it's your family."
Hank nodded. "Don't be too hard on her."
"Me?"
"Erin, you've been like a daughter to me all these years… you're protective of me… and I don't want that to change… but I also know that you two are both strong and independent women who will butt heads… try not to… for me?"
Erin brushed her hair behind her ear. "Sure thing."
"Thanks, Erin… send Al in… I need to go over some things with him."
She got up and nodded. "Yep… I'll uh, go check see if Josie needs any help settling in."
Antonio pointed to his desk. "I sit here, Jules is across from me, Erin is next to me… not sure where you're gonna sit. We're still a little low on furniture."
"I can take the desk here." She leaned against the desk that was meant to be for a receptionist.
"For now." Jules laughed. "You do the same quality of work as you were in Vice; you may need your own office."
"I am not wanting to be a Sergeant or Lieutenant, thank you." Josie examined the desk she'd chosen. "Well, what exactly should I be doing?"
Erin Lindsay walked up to the group. She extended her hand. "Hi, Josie… I'm Erin… uh, I've known Hank a long time… he…"
"Antonio told me how Hank took you in… He also told me you're a no nonsense cop who kicks ass." Josie smiled as she shook Erin's hand. "Maybe you can give me a little insight into who Hank Voight really is."
Erin was surprised. Most people, when they found out about her connection to Voight, wanted to turn and run. "Sure… um, Hank asked me to help Antonio and Jules get you settled in… go over our systems, records, bring over your CI files… see what you can do until the babies get here, and congrats again… really."
"Thanks. I appreciate it." Josie smiled. "Am I okay to take this desk?"
"Totally. Heck, if you want, I can move and you can have the desk next to Antonio."
"Naw, I'm good here… I can kind of see everything that's happening around here."
"Cool… So, let's talk about how Hank does things… and Jules and Antonio can fill in anything I miss."
By the end of shift, Josie was feeling comfortable with the set-up in Intelligence. She and Antonio were about to head home when Hank called them into his office.
"Yeah, Boss?" Antonio said.
"Have a seat." Voight motioned to the two chairs in front of his desk. They sat down, unsure of what he had to say to them. "Josie, how'd your first day go?"
"Good… a lot to learn, but I have time… I'm not going into the field any time soon."
"Good. Good." Voight nodded. "Once you are ready for the field, we've got your CPD issued vehicle… a brand new Nissan X-Terra. Great for handling in the winter… and sturdy." Hank didn't add on that he had had it customized to be bomb and bullet resistant. He might not be able to play the 'dad' card, but he wasn't about to let his daughter get killed in the line of duty.
"Sweet." Josie grinned. "I… Thank you."
"No problem. You've earned it." Voight said. "I uh, also arranged to have the Buick I was looking at for you, delivered here. It should be in the roll up."
"Wait, Hank… you didn't need to buy me a new SUV."
"I did… You need to focus on healing… taking care of all the kids… planning the wedding… it's the least I can do… plus it's for your family… not just you."
"He makes a valid point." Antonio said. "Just, let's go see it… it'll help… there's no way a little car is going to work with two sets of twins and two other children."
"Okay, let's go." Josie smiled.
Hank led them to the rollout and Josie's jaw hit the floor. It wasn't just a new Buick… it was a brand new Buick Enclave. It had room for up to 8 passengers. It was a deep sapphire blue and had chrome rims. Josie turned to Hank. "Hank! This… no way… this is too much."
"Josie, I know that I've missed out on everything and I can't make up for that, but please… let me gift this to you and my grandkids." Hank's eyes were becoming teary.
Antonio hadn't seen Voight showing any emotions in all the years he'd known him. "Jo," He whispered. "He's your dad… let him in… he's trying." He never thought he'd see the day where he was actually supporting Hank Voight's decisions on anything.
Josie nodded. She turned back to look at the Enclave then she went to her father and hugged him. "Thanks… Dad."
Hank was in shock. He hadn't thought he'd ever hear her say that. He wrapped his arms around her. "Anything for you and the kids… I just want what's best."
Josie nodded, wiping away a stray tear. "It's going to take a while… getting used to all this, but… I think we'll get there."
"I'm glad to hear it."
She looked at him and very seriously said, "Just… don't hurt Mama… or break her heart, because that's going to be a problem."
"I promise… your mom and I… we're still in the, as the kids call it, 'Dating' phase… but we've both had our share of heartbreak, so we'll just take it day by day."
"Uh, does Justin know yet?" Antonio asked.
Hank shook his head. "Haven't found a way to tell him."
"Why don't we go there, together and tell him… it's not like he can get too out of control." Josie suggested.
Hank looked to Antonio. "Sure… can we go now?"
Antonio nodded. "I think my parents can handle the kids for a little while longer. I'll just give them a call on the way."
"Can I take my new car out for a test spin?" Josie asked excitedly.
Hank extended the keys. "Go for it." Antonio was going to sit in the back, but Hank got in. "Sit with her. I think I can sit in the back… at least there's no handcuffs this time."
Josie snickered. "Just give me the directions and we'll go tell him."
It took over an hour to get to Statesville in the traffic that night. Hank had called the Warden ahead of time. They got through security fairly quickly, handing over their guns, but keeping their badges. Antonio had agreed to hang out towards the back to not upset Justin. Josie had inquired as to why. Antonio then had to admit that not only had he arrested her father but her brother as well. She had just sighed and came to the conclusion that she was finally getting the family drama everyone had always complained about. They waited for about 15 minutes before Justin came into the family visiting space.
"Pop!" Justin was grinning. "What… what are you doing here? Ya don't normally come twice in one week."
Hank hugged him. "I can't come see my son?"
"Well, yeah… I'm not gonna complain." Justin looked over to Josie. "Uh, who's she?" He then saw Antonio in the back. "What the fuck, Pop? What's HE doing here?"
"Boss, I can leave." Antonio headed for the door.
"No, 'Tonio… it's fine. Uh, Justin, let's sit." Hank motioned to the tables.
Justin glared at Antonio but did as his father asked. Josie sat across from him, next to Hank. "Pop, what's going on?"
"Uh… a lot… has changed." Hank started. "I just learned some things over the last few weeks, and I've been processing them and trying to figure out how to tell you."
"Tell me what, Pop? You sick or… or… dying?" Justin's voice showed his worry.
"No… no, Justin, I'm perfectly healthy. It's more of something from my past that I've just learned about." Hank wasn't really sure how to tell all of this to Justin. He didn't want to hurt his son, but at the same time, he didn't want to hurt Josie either.
"Just tell me, like… I don't… understand… who is she?"
Josie sighed. She knew this was hard for Hank. "My name is Josie Duplessis… I'm a detective in Intelligence and… I'm your sister."
Justin's jaw dropped and Hank heaved a sigh of relief. He was happy she could be blunter about it.
"Pop, what's she talking about?"
"Before your mother and I met… I had a one-night thing with a friend's girlfriend because of dumb reasons… we both should've said no, but we didn't… she and he got back together and they got married… Josie was born shortly after… they… they assumed he was her father but he wasn't… I just found out… and I've been trying to find a way to tell you."
"So, Mom never knew that you had slept around on her?" Justin's fists were clenched.
"I didn't even know your mother yet… Josie's mom introduced me to her shortly before their wedding… I get that this feels like a betrayal but you need to know you have a sister now… and 15-year-old niece and nephew too."
"Woah! Wait, how…" Justin faced Josie. "Okay, so my parents met…"
"About 34 years ago?" Josie finished. "I'm 33… Xavier and Zoë… were born on my 18th birthday…"
"They're twins?" Justin began to relax.
"Yeah. Xavier is the oldest of the two… and I'm pregnant again… twins…"
"Woah… wait… who… their dad?"
Antonio waved from the back of the room.
"That's why Antonio's here… he's both sets of twins' dad… and I'm marrying him in August." Josie said calmly. "I get you aren't his biggest fan… and you have your reasons, I wouldn't ask either of you to change those opinions… but I do want to have the chance of making some sort of relationship work…"
"So, you've been with him all this time and you waited 15 years… wait… isn't he, like, married with kids?"
"My wife died 7 years ago and my two kids with her are adjusting just fine to having Josie as they're step-mother." Antonio answered from the back. "Josie and I were neighbors… but she was taken away for her own protection before we could tell anyone about the baby… I thought she was dead…"
"I was the one who, at the request of her mother, pulled her from Chicago and sent her back to New Orleans."
"Well, that explains the accent."
"I grew up there… until we moved back when I was 17…" Josie brushed her hair back. "I… I really would like to get to know you."
Justin sighed. "Well, I did always want siblings… Mom and Pop just told me it wasn't possible."
"Well, we have that chance now." Josie took his hand. "Uh, Dad… I think you…"
"I know…" Hank took a deep breath. "Um… I also have started seeing Josie's mom… there's a chemistry there and we're taking it slow… but you should know that I do still love your mother and I'll never forget what we had… but I can't stand being alone at home anymore… I know even when you're out, you're not gonna want to live with me anymore…"
"Pop, just… can I meet everyone?" Justin asked. "Being in here… it sucks… and I…"
"You're not alone… and I'd love for you to meet the kids… and my mom." Josie smiled. She turned to Hank. "Uh, Dad… can… do you think we could maybe get him a day pass or something… for the wedding?"
Hank stroked his chin. "I'm thinking we could… Antonio?"
"I'll put the request in myself." Antonio nodded. "If I ask, it's pretty much a guarantee."
"Uh, thanks… bro." Justin said. He looked to the other chair at the table. "Uh, come… I guess I can't be hating on the guy that my sister's gonna marry."
Antonio nodded and joined them. Justin spent a majority of the time they were there asking questions. Hank was so happy that Justin was being understanding about this. He suspected it was because Josie was a sister for him. That and she was able to explain everything.
The Warden appeared. "Sergeant, I'm sorry to have to cut this visit short, but it's almost lights out."
Hank sighed. "Okay… uh, thank you… this has been a big step for us."
Justin stood up. "Yeah, thanks, Warden… I… I got a sister… and nieces and nephews… I've got a reason to be a better person now."
The Warden smiled. "Good. Uh, I'll escort you back to your cell… you can say good night to your family."
Justin hugged his father and shook Antonio's hand. "Take care of her… at least until I get out… then I can help out."
Antonio laughed. "You got it, kid."
Justin turned to Josie. "It's a shock to know I've got a big sister… but thank you… for coming to see me… I hope I'll see you again soon."
Josie hugged him. "Definitely. That's what family's all about."
Justin followed the Warden out of the visiting area while another guard escorted them back to the main gate where they could retrieve their weapons.
"You want me to go back to the District?" Josie asked.
"Nah." Hank said. "I think, if it's okay with you, I'll crash in the guest room… I'm… I don't want to go home to an empty house."
"It's fine with us." Antonio said. "We're family… may as well act like one."
*SBU*SBU*SBU*SBU*SBU*SBU*SBU*SBU*SBU*SBU*SBU*
Three weeks later, Zoë and Dixie had just returned from Paris. Josie and Antonio were waiting at the airport for them, while Xavier stayed home with Eva and Diego. In the three weeks they had moved everything from Antonio's house into Josie's. The house was now being seen by potential renters. Surprisingly, Eva and Diego had adjusted to these new changes quite well. To Antonio's dismay, Hank had been spending a lot of time over to get to know more about Josie and the kids. He was still unsure of how Voight really felt about him marrying Josie, but it didn't matter. Gaby had arranged it that Chaplain Orlovsky would be performing the ceremony. It was lucky for them because he helped get all the paperwork in order for them to have a wedding blessed by the Church. They were having all the food prepared by Zoë, Eva and the family and some of the workers from Molly's would be serving it. Antonio and Josie had tried to convince them of letting a caterer do the work, but the girls wouldn't hear anything of it. They insisted it was part of their wedding gift to them. Josie had convinced Antonio that it was okay and that it meant they were becoming a family. Having those discussions over Skype when Paris was 7 hours ahead of Chicago. Now, they were going to be home and everything was going to be able to fall together. Antonio and Josie had a surprise lined up for Eva's birthday. She was a 4th of July baby and Antonio had explained that her birthday was never celebrated the way she deserved. Once they were home, they'd finalize the rest of the plan.
"Mama!" They heard Zoë's voice come from the arrivals gate. They spun around and saw their daughter racing towards them.
Josie braced herself as Zoë wrapped her arms around her mother. "Ooof! Careful, Zoë… I'm not made of steel." Josie laughed.
"Sorry." Zoë blushed. "I just missed you."
"What about me?" Antonio asked.
"Sorry, Daddy." Zoë hugged him too. "I'm just kinda used to it only being Mama here. I'm glad you came."
"We missed you too." Antonio smiled. "Where's Mimi?"
"I'm here… sadly, I don't run as fast as she does through security." Dixie joined them, winded.
"Welcome home." Josie hugged her mother.
"Thank you, Cherie… my word! You've gotten bigger in three weeks."
"Thanks, Mom." Josie said sarcastically. "I'm just carrying twins again."
"I know… you look good. How are you feeling?" Dixie put her carry-on down.
"Pretty good. We, uh… moved Antonio and the kids over to our house and Dad has been spending a lot of time there."
"Hank is Dad now?" Dixie asked.
"Yeah… and I met his son… my half-brother, Justin."
"Wow… a lot has happened." Dixie smiled. "Well, let's go get that luggage and go home… I'm beat."
Again, Zoë raced ahead to the luggage carousels. Antonio and Josie just grinned as she took off a year's worth of luggage for herself and her grandmother. Antonio quickly helped her load the luggage onto carts and they headed to Josie's new SUV.
"Mama! When did you get this?" Zoë exclaimed.
"Your grandpa gifted it to me and the family… it's more baby friendly than my old car, which is now officially your Mimi's."
"Wow." Zoë hopped in the back seat. "There's a lot of room in here!"
"You won't be saying that once there are two car seats, strollers and diaper bags in there too." Antonio laughed. "Come on, everyone's waiting for you guys to come home."
"Wait, is it safe for you to be driving?" Dixie asked as Josie got behind the wheel.
"Yes, Mama… until I can't fit… I'm driving."
*SBU*SBU*SBU*SBU*SBU*SBU*SBU*SBU*SBU*SBU*SBU*
July 4, 2013- Eva's 13th birthday…
Josie got up early with Antonio to make sure everything was ready. Eva had gone to a friend's for a sleepover party the night before. All of it had been part of the plan. Everyone that was close to her was in on it. They got together and decorated. Xavier and Zoë, along with Diego, were marinating the different meats as well as hand making the burger patties for the BBQ. Josie, Gaby and Rebecca set about to decorating the yard and the house with balloons, flowers and streamers. The guys set up chairs and tables as well some different yard games that everyone could join in on. Dixie and Lilianna were working on the birthday cake. It was a rich chocolate cake with 3 layers filled with a coconut and walnut cream. There were also a variety of cake pops too. They were going all out on this. Antonio wanted Eva to have the best birthday ever. In the last 7 years, Eva's birthday tended to be overshadowed by the 4th or completely ignored because of Antonio's work. Having Josie in their lives meant that all the kids could have amazing birthday parties. It was close to 2. Eva was due home any minute and everyone had hidden in the back yard.
"I'm home!" Eva called as she walked in the front door.
Antonio greeted her at the front door. "Hey, sweetie!" He hugged her tightly. "How was your sleepover?"
"Really fun… uh… where's everyone?"
"Uh, in the back." Antonio led her passed the rooms that were decorated and covered her eyes. "Okay… one more little step."
"Dad… what the heck?" Eva made her way onto the back deck.
Antonio uncovered her eyes. Everyone shouted 'Happy Birthday' and 'Surprise'.
"OH! Oh my God!" Eva's hands flew to her mouth. "Wow!"
"Happy Birthday, Eva." Antonio hugged her tightly. "Do you like it?"
Eva was speechless. She just nodded. "Thank you."
"Thank you brothers and sister, and Josie too… it was all their ideas. I just… I want you to know how much I love you… how much everyone loves you."
"I know, Daddy. Thank you… I love you, too." She went down and visited with different members of both families as well as her friends who had been invited.
Josie went up to the deck. "Well?"
"She's happy. She deserves this… I… I dropped the ball too much for them over the last 7 years."
"Antonio, you were raising them alone… while being a Vice Detective and doing a lot of UC work… that's not your fault."
"It still wasn't fair to them… you raised Xavier and Zoë on your own…"
"I wasn't always there for birthdays, or Christmases or Easters… I tried but there were no guarantees… Kids… are strong and they know that we're doing the best we can with what we have available."
"Do you ever wonder what it would've been like… if we hadn't been pulled apart?"
"All the time… but Antonio… we wouldn't have all of this… if we had… things happen for a reason… whether it's to test our strength or to show us something… it's meant to be, but we just took a different path to get here."
"Why do you have to be so wise?" He wrapped his arms around her.
"I have no idea… must be a mom thing."
Antonio shook his head. "My mom says that all the time."
"She's probably right."
They went down and mingled with their guests. They watched in awe as the kids laughed and played. They knew that it was the best thing they could've done to help them get used everything that had happened in the last month or so.
*SBU*SBU*SBU*SBU*SBU*SBU*SBU*SBU*SBU*SBU*SBU*
August 17, 2013- Wedding Day…
Josie was a ball of anxiety. She hadn't been this nervous in a long time. Antonio had spent the night with the boys at Hank's house while Gaby had spent the night over with Josie and the girls. It was time to start getting ready and Josie was dealing with butterflies and very active babies in her belly. She had had her shower already and was waiting for her mother to come and style her hair. She had decided against wearing a tiara or veil. Since it was a small gathering and a less than traditional wedding, she was opting to have her hair curled and having flowers weaved into her hair to make a crown. She had spent the last couple months allowing her normal pixie cut to grow out so she could have flowers weaved into it. The hormones had caused her hair to grow a little faster and made her hair that much curlier and soft. With her choice of dress, she was also opting for a more vintage style. Dixie came into her room carrying a kit full of hair products, flowers and curling irons. She set to work and in no time, Josie's hair was styled and ready. Dixie's hair had been swept into a tight chignon already. Dixie quickly set to work on styling Eva and Zoë's hair. Gaby had done hers already as she was in charge of helping everyone with their make-up and dresses.
Soon, they were all ready and it was time to get into the dresses. Gaby was in a rich violet summer dress while Eva and Zoë were in ivory dresses with purple and pink flowers. Dixie's dress was a deep eggplant purple and had a small silver bolero to go with it. Josie took a deep breath and watched as Gaby unzipped the bag with her dress in it. She had opted for an ivory with rose gold lace, tea-length gown. She had surprisingly been able to get it on rush order to have in time for the wedding. There was a sleeveless, sheer yoke over the sweetheart neckline. It was a very boho styled gown but fit with the theme that was going on today. She stepped into the dress and waited as Dixie did up the old-fashioned buttons that ran down the back. Once the dress was done up, Zoë slid the ivory ballet flats that Josie had opted to wear. Once everything was in place, Josie turned to see her reflection in the mirror.
"Wow!" Eva and Zoë exclaimed.
Dixie stifled back a sob. "Josie, you're so beautiful."
Josie had to take a tissue. "Oh my God."
The two girls hugged her. "Dad's not gonna know what hit him." They said.
"Well, the photographer's waiting… let's uh… let's get this show on the road." Josie said, her voice breaking. She had hoped that this day would come, but for a long time, she had thought it would never happen.
In the last couple months, she had grown closer to her biological father and her half-brother. She had even asked Hank to walk her up the aisle with Dixie. Justin had been granted a one-day pass to come to the wedding under a police escort. Erin Lindsay had volunteered to come and keep an eye on him. Today was a very big deal. Once the formal pictures had been taken, the girls waited for Hank to pick them up. He had driven Antonio and the boys to the chapel already. He pulled up and they had a full police escort to the chapel.
Antonio was pacing in the vestibule. He had been anxious when he had married Laura, but this, this was a whole other level of anxiety.
"Dad, I don't think Chaplain Orlovsky is going to be too happy if you wear a hole in his floor." Diego pointed out. He was fiddling with his tie. "Do I have to wear this thing?"
Antonio couldn't help but laugh. "Uh, yeah… Be happy it's not a bow-tie… or a tux… then we'd all feel like damn penguins."
Xavier adjusted the boutonniere on his lapel. "I'm quite content not being a penguin."
"See, a tie's not so bad." Antonio smiled. "Come on, it's our big day… as a family."
"Yeah, I know." Diego got up and hugged Antonio. "Dad, is… do you think it's too fast for me to call Josie 'Mom'?"
Antonio froze. "Um, I don't… I don't know, buddy… I guess that's up to you to talk to her about it."
"Cool." Diego grinned and went to sit down again.
Xavier asked. "Dad, how much longer before we get started… these outfits are hot."
"I know, son." Antonio was fidgeting with his cufflinks at this point. He was starting to wish that they had just opted for vests, dress shirts and ties. He looked at his watch. "They should be here pretty quick, the ceremony is set to start at 3 and it's a quarter to."
"Can I go see if they're here? The rule says the groom can't see the bride." Diego laughed. "No rules about sons not being allowed to see the bride."
Xavier high-fived his little brother. "He's got a really good point." They both raced out of the vestibule. "Bye, Dad!"
Antonio sighed. "We really should've just eloped."
The doors to the chapel were closed to prevent any sneak peaks at the bride. Xavier knocked on the door. "Mom?"
"Yeah, buddy, we're here. Couldn't be late for my own wedding could I?" Josie's voice was slightly muffled through the door.
"No… uh, everything okay this morning?" He asked again.
"Yes, Xavier. Tell your father we can get into position and get this show on the road."
Diego stayed with his sisters while Xavier went to tell Antonio. Gaby fixed his tie again. "Diego, you look very dashing."
"Dad said we're like penguins." Diego replied. "I feel like a dying, oven-roasted penguin."
"Diego?" Josie's voice came through the door again.
"Yes?"
"Once the ceremony's done and we've a few family pictures, you can lose the penguin suit. Promise."
"Yes!" Diego did a little happy dance just as Chaplain Orlovsky joined them.
"Everyone excited?" He asked.
The kids nodded. "Yep."
"Good, good." The Chaplain went to the doors. "Is the bride ready?"
"Yes, Father." Josie said.
"Alright, let's get a move on."
Antonio took his position at the back of the church with his parents. After Chaplain Orlovsky was at the front of the church, the music began and Antonio and his parents slowly made their way up the aisle. They were followed by Gaby and Tiago. Diego and Eva went next and finally Xavier and Zoë. The music changed to the Canon in 'D' and the doors to the Chapel opened to reveal Josie and her parents. Antonio felt his breath hitch as he saw his bride make her way up the aisle. She looked radiant. She had a small bouquet of orchids and Peruvian lilies in various shades of purple, pink and white. She was glowing as they made their way to the front of the chapel. As Josie passed by their family and friends, there were gasps of awe. Once they were at the front of the chapel, Antonio went to take Josie's hand. He hugged Dixie and Hank's hands.
"Take good care of her." Dixie whispered.
"I will."
"Don't forget, I know where you live, and work… and I've got ways of getting rid of people."
"Oh, I know." Antonio smiled. "I promise."
Hank took Josie hand and put it in Antonio's. He quickly gave Josie a kiss on the cheek and escorted Dixie to their seats.
Antonio and Josie took the last few steps to the altar. Josie handed Gaby her bouquet.
"Please, be seated." Chaplain Orlovsky said. "We are gathered here today to celebrate the joining of Josie and Antonio in Holy Matrimony. Today, they join their families as one… a dream that they've shared for almost 16 years." He smiled. "We're here to celebrate with them. Antonio and Josie, have you come here freely and without reservation to give yourselves to each other in marriage?"
"I do." They said in unison.
"Will you honour and love each other for the rest of your lives?"
Again, they replied. "I do."
"This part may seem a little redundant at this point… but, I still have to ask. Will you accept children lovingly from God and bring them up according to the law of Christ and his Church."
Everyone laughed as Antonio and Josie answered. "I do."
"Okay, then… may I have the rings please."
Xavier and Diego stepped forward and handed Chaplain Orlovsky the rings. He blessed them and asked Josie and Antonio to grasp right hands. "Antonio, repeat after me: I, Antonio, take you, Josie, to be my wife."
"I, Antonio, take you, Josie, to be my wife." Antonio said.
"I promise to be true to you in good times and in bad, in sickness and in health, for better, for worse, for richer or for poorer…"
"I promise to be true to you in good times and in bad, in sickness and in health, for better, for worse, for richer or for poorer…" Antonio felt the butterflies in his stomach.
"I will love you, and honour you all the days of my life."
Antonio grinned. "I will love you, and honour you all the days of my life."
Josie blushed.
Chaplain Orlovsky turned to Josie. "Your turn. I, Josie, take you, Antonio to be my husband."
"I, Josie, take you, Antonio to be my husband."
"I promise to be true to you in good times and in bad, in sickness and in health, for better, for worse, for richer or for poorer…"
"I promise to be true to you in good times and in bad, in sickness and in health, for better, for worse, for richer or for poorer…" Josie's breath hitched as she got closer to the end. She knew the last part off by heart. "I will love you, and honour you all the days of my life."
Chaplain Orlovsky snickered. "Well, I guess that's that. Antonio, take this ring, and place it on Josie's left hand and say: 'Josie, take this ring as a sign of my love and fidelity. In the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit."
Antonio took the engagement ring and wedding band that he had had soldered together so they wouldn't wear out over time. "Josie, take this ring as a sign of my love and fidelity. In the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit." He slid it onto Josie's finger and kissed her hand.
Josie took the wedding band she had picked out for Antonio. It was a simple white gold band that had seemed to have been hammered, giving it a unique texture and appearance. "I think I've got this, Chaplain."
"By all means." Chaplain Orlovsky smiled.
The guest burst into laughter.
"Antonio, take this ring as a sign of my love and fidelity. In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit." She slid the ring on his finger.
"Well, without any further ado, it is my pleasure to bless this marriage." He made the sign of the cross. "By the great state of Illinois, the city of Chicago and by God's grace, I am happy to say… you are man and wife. A round of applause for Mr. and Mrs. Antonio and Josie Dawson. You may kiss the bride."
Cheers erupted as Antonio swept Josie into his arms and kissed her deeply. The small chapel seemed to shake with the cheers and applause. Dixie wiped away a tear from her eye. Her baby was all grown up, and there was no way she could deny it anymore.
Hank wrapped his arm around her. "She's going to be okay."
"I know, Hank… it's… I never thought she'd get this chance. They've always been destined to be together."
"They are now. In the eyes of God and the State… nothing's gonna come between them, or their family." He kissed the top of her head.
Antonio, Josie, Gaby and Tiago quickly signed the register. The kids joined them at the front of the altar for a few pictures and they quickly headed outside where they got into their vehicles and headed to the pier for some formal pictures. Their families met them there and then it was time to head to the small community centre that they had rented for the reception.
After the meal, there were the speeches and the kids had gotten together to prepare a special speech for their parents. After Gaby, Tiago, and the parents had done their speeches, the kids got up and went to the mic.
Xavier tapped on the mic. "Excuse us… but we've got one last speech here… before Mom and Dad come up and give theirs… um… First off, we'd like to introduce ourselves. We are Xavier, Zoë, Eva and Diego Dawson…" He pointed to them as he said their names. "Zoë and I are 15 years old and we haven't really had Dad in our lives until now… and by some random chance, we've got this chance to be a family again."
Zoë took the mic. "We've known about Dad and his family all these years and we couldn't be happier to now be a family together with Eva and Diego. We've gotten a chance to see what happens when you don't give up on your hopes and dreams. Mom and Dad, you guys are the best example of determination and hard work… and we are blessed to be your children. Thank you for showing us what true love is."
Eva and Diego stood next to each other as Zoë handed them the mic. "Diego and I have been talking about what we would say today. We were surprised… to know that we had an older brother and sister… we were even more surprised to see how accepting and loving they've been to us… and Josie… in the couple months that we've been able to get to know you and see how much happier Dad has been in the last 7 years. You've brought us together as a family, and we are so happy to be a part of it. Thank you, Josie…" She looked to her brother.
He took the mic. "We just want to say… that you're not just our step-mom now… we couldn't be happier to call you 'Mom'."
Josie looked to Antonio then back to their children with tears in her eyes. She got up from the table and ran to them. She pulled all of them into a tight hug. "I love you, guys. All of you. I'm so proud to be your mom." She kissed them all on the cheek. "Thank you… thank you so much."
"We love you too." They said.
The speeches were soon concluded and it was time to open up the dance floor. Josie had asked their DJ to make a medley of both the Spanish and English versions of Marc Anthony's 'I Need You'. Antonio and Josie took the dance floor as the music began to play. It wasn't a super slow song, but just slow enough for them to get lost in the moment. Josie then danced with Hank to a slower country song, 'My Daughter's Father', while Antonio danced to a Pop Latin version of 'Over the Rainbow'. Finally, the whole bridal party joined in on the dance floor to 'God Gave Me You'. After the formal dances were done, the DJ cranked up the dance music and the party really started.
Josie was feel like a million bucks. She was sitting with some of the nurses she had worked with while she'd been at Med when Justin and Erin approached the table.
"Hey, sis." Justin hugged her. "You look great."
"Thanks." Josie nodded to her nursing friends as they headed to the dance floor. "Having a good time?"
"Anything is better than being in Statesville." He answered. "But, this is amazing. You guys look awesome together."
"We're really glad you could come." Josie took his hand. "Did you have a good time with the kids?"
"They talk really fast." He laughed. "I had to get them to repeat a couple things."
"They're excited about all this." Josie said. "Think that we'll be able to make it as a family?"
"I really want to." He smiled. "This is definitely a reason to keep my nose clean. Heck, I've never seen Pop smile this much in a long ass time."
"Well, everyone deserves to be happy at some point." Erin said. "Uh, I hate to cut this short, but…"
"I know." Justin hung his head. "Thank you, Josie for having me… it means a lot."
Josie got up and hugged him. "Always. Um, once you're out… we'll do a big family meal… okay?"
"Thanks."
Erin led him through the guests to say good night to his nieces and nephews as well as his father. They headed back to Statesville. Josie felt bad for her brother, but she also knew why he was there. He had to learn the hard way, but it seemed like it was actually working.
The evening was winding down and Josie was starting to feel the weight of the day. She sat back and watched as the kids were dancing the night away with their cousins. Antonio came up to her carrying a water bottle.
"What's that for?" Josie took it. "Damn! It's a block of ice!"
Antonio laughed. "Gaby froze a bunch of them for you… it's for your feet and ankles."
"My sister is a saviour!" She took the bottle and kicked off her shoes. She gently rolled her foot over it. "Oh, that feels so good."
"Glad to hear it, Mrs. Dawson." He kissed her neck.
"Mmm… I like that."
"Good." He kissed her lips. "It's almost 2… wanna call it a night? I have the honeymoon suite all booked and ready for us."
"What 'bout the kids?" Josie asked.
"Between both of our parents, they'll be fine." He helped her up. "Let's go and celebrate our wedding night."
Josie giggled. "Okay, Detective. Lead the way."
He helped her get her shoes back on and they made their way through the guests to thank them for coming and to say good night. They made the kids promise to behave for their grandparents until Monday morning when Antonio and Josie would be back from their little hotel get away. They had an actual honeymoon planned, but it would be for after the babies were born and old enough to be left with family for at least a week.
They arrived at the Waldorf Astoria Chicago in short time. It helped that it was 2 am. They arrived at the desk and checked in. The concierge escorted them to the honeymoon suite. Josie was shocked. She knew that this was probably the priciest hotel in Chicago. It was very classy and chic. She just held onto Antonio's hand as they made their way to the elevator.
"Congratulations, Mr. and Mrs. Dawson." He said as he opened the door to their suite. "Please enjoy your stay and if you need anything, please call us. The fruit basket and bottle of sparkling fruit juice are our gift to you."
Antonio handed him a tip and the concierge nodded and left. Antonio closed and locked the door. "I finally get you all to myself." He walked over and swept her into his arms. "You look beautiful; did I tell you that today?"
"Maybe." Josie batted her eyes at him. "You look very dashing, Detective."
"Oh, Jo… that still drives me wild… the way you say that." He kissed her deeply. She sucked on his bottom lip. He could feel the blood course through his veins and rush to his groin. His hands slid along her back. "Buttons? Really?"
"I wasn't going to make it that easy…" She smiled slyly.
Antonio made quick work of the buttons and slid the dress off. He was a little surprised to see no bra, but that was fine with him. Josie's hands made their way to his shirt buttons. She undid them and while he pulled his shirt and tie off, she unbuckled his belt and undid his pants. She slid everything down as she knelt in front of him. She gently took him in her hand and stroked him. She then took him in her mouth, alternating between sucking and licking the tip and shaft. Antonio had to brace himself against the bed as Josie took him by surprise. He moaned as she pulled him deeper into her mouth. The warmth was welcoming and caused him to almost throb with pleasure. He knew if he didn't stop her, he'd finish before he got any chance with her. He pulled back and pulled Josie up. He grabbed her and fell back onto the bed, pulling her with him. Josie knew that he wanted to see her. She positioned herself over him and gently slid onto him. Antonio almost lost it as her warm heat wrapped tightly around him. He held onto her hips as she began to move with him. Soon they were in an intimate dance. Antonio held on tightly as Josie picked up the pace. He could feel her tighten around him. He knew she was close. He thrust up and lost control as Josie's orgasm rocked her. They both froze, bodies shuddering in ecstasy and breathing ragged. As Antonio regained control of his mind, he gently helped Josie roll off him and pulled her into his embrace.
This was it. Their dream of a family together had finally come true. It was always meant to be and now it was.
*SBU*SBU*SBU*SBU*SBU*SBU*SBU*SBU*SBU*SBU*SBU*
A/N: Well, there we go… More to come soon. I dedicate this chapter to my wonderful husband. Happy 3rd Anniversary, my love. Yes, today, August 17 is our wedding anniversary. You are always my Antonio. An update to the Rose should be expected by mid-next week. Love Always, Nicole
